set-top box

Xiaomi has rolled out a couple slick new devices for fans of streaming content and audio. The first of the new devices is the Mi Box Mini and it is the smallest set-top box we have seen in a long time. The device is so small that it sticks out of the outlet with nothing that actually sits on the TV or entertainment center.

Minix is a small Hong Kong-based outfit that specializes in small set-top boxes that allow you to run Android apps on your TV. With this new product dubbed the Neo Z64, they are now offering basically a fanless desktop PC box that fits in the palm of your hand. Would you go for something like this?

A new Android XBMC powered set top box is up for pre-order called the VidOn Box. One of the big features of this set top box is that it has a low price with pre-orders underway for $49 right now. The device can run Android apps along with a custom version of the XBMC called VidOn Media Center.

What should you do if you want to make it big in the Android market in Asia, particularly in China? Why partner with the top Android OEM of course! That is what OUYA seems to be doing by striking a deal with Xiaomi to bring its games and its platform outside of its comfort zone and into the Chinese, and eventually Asian, market.

As long as the proliferation of media on the intarwebs continues, many companies will think that a standalone set-top digital media player is a viable market. The Freakbox continues in the tradition of Popcorn Hour and Roku, a set-top media player that can do just about anything an Android device can do.

Rikomagic is nearing the ship date for its MK902 II, which is an Android-powered TV box/mini-PC. Some people call it a TV box – because you connect it basically to your TV and then get to do stuff – and some call it a mini-PC, which is again understandable, as it more or less gives you a PC-like interface using the built-in Android OS.

Google I/O, a time when dreams are made and hopes are dashed. This is year is no different, with smartwatches and a new Android dessert, and possibly a Nexus device, in queue. However, there is now word that Google will also be unveiling two other products or projects: an almost immortal Google TV device and a smart car system.

Xiaomi has decided to one-up fledgling OnePlus by holding its press event half an hour ahead of the other. However, Xiaomi's surprise lineup, which consists of two routers and a TV box, might not be what many have been excitedly waiting for.

The Amazon event is still underway, but we now have another streaming set-top box to consider. We are talking about the Amazon Fire TV, which is a device that will attach to your television and allow you to stream from a few services. As one would expect, those services include Amazon Instant Video. Amazon is pushing a few things here, one of which is simplicity.

Here's another bit to add to the Amazon rumor mill. The rumored set-top box that the online retail giant is said to be working on might be ready for commercial launch as early as April, of course according to sources who are always close to the matter.